Design Academy Eindhoven (DAE)FAQInformation

The training

Educational objectives:

François Gilles, an experienced ornamental sculptor, leads the wood ornamentation training program. A top apprentice in France, a graduate of the Boulle School and a doctor of art history, he works on both historical and contemporary projects.

Upon completion of the training, the intern will be able to:

  • Begin traditional wood carving techniques
  • Understand the inherent qualities of wood depending on the species
  • Master the fundamental carving techniques
  • Learn how to create a paneling element

Training content

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of ornamentation during this one-week training course, specially designed for those passionate about creativity and elegance. Under the expert guidance of François Gilles, a renowned ornamental sculptor, this unique experience will allow you to discover the secrets of wood ornamentation.

During this immersive week, students will be guided through the practical techniques and essential processes of this artisanal craft. They will have the opportunity to create their own wooden ornaments, exploring the patterns, shapes, and details that make ornamentation so rich.

Working closely with François Gilles, trainees will learn to translate their creativity into concrete ornamental pieces.

Program

Day 1

Morning

  • Presentation of the craft and techniques
  • Discovery of the 24 bas-reliefs sculpted by Giovani Marchiori (Sala Capitolare of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice)

Afternoon

  • Sharpening
  • First cutting exercises

Day 2

Morning

  • Brief history of ornamental sculpture
  • Cutting exercises

Afternoon

  • Sketches, reference research, visual research
  • Wood cutting
  • Postponement of the Drawing
  • Technical Preparation
  • Time for Discussion and Group Follow-up

Day 3

Morning

  • Creation of the bas-relief

Afternoon

  • Continuation of the bas-relief
  • Time for Discussion and Group Follow-up

Day 4

Morning

  • Continuation of the bas-relief

Afternoon

  • Continuation of the bas-relief
  • Personalized Individual Follow-up
  • Evaluation

Day 5

Morning

  • Finishing the bas-relief

Afternoon

  • Workshop storage

Trainers

with François Gilles

François Gilles

François Gilles is a wood sculptor and art historian, renowned for his expertise in combining artistic craftsmanship and academic research. A graduate of the École Boulle and ranked best apprentice in France in sculpture, a former student of the ENS Cachan and an agrégé in artistic crafts, he is currently pursuing a doctorate in art history. A design teacher at the Olivier de Serres school, he also works professionally in his studio in the Yonne region, where he works on both contemporary decoration and heritage conservation projects. His research focuses on the great sculpted decorations of the Ancien Régime, exploring the figures of the artisans who shaped these works in the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as those of the actors who, in the 19th and 20th centuries, contributed to their destruction, preservation or collection. This dual historical and practical approach has led him to collaborate regularly with museum institutions, notably the Palace of Versailles, where he participated in the restoration of the decoration of the Grand Cabinet du Dauphin (1747) alongside Charles Boulnois.

Methods used

  • Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
  • Materials provided
  • Individual and collaborative work
  • Workshop work
  • Active participation and experimentation of participants are encouraged

Monitoring and evaluation procedures

  • Collective and personalized monitoring of work, regular updates
  • Self-assessment of technical skills
  • Collective feedback
  • Half-day attendance sheet
  • Certification of completion issued by Campus MaNa

Duration and method of organization:

Target audience:
The training is open to all adult audiences
Level(s):
Language(s) :
French
English
Dates :
From 29/04/2026 to 03/05/2026
Duration:
5 days
Schedules:
9h-13h / 14h-18h
Location & organization:
Campus Mana Venezia
Cancellation conditions:
21 days before the start of the training
Number of participants:
10
Price: 
2200€ TTC

OPCOS: 100% financeable by AFDAS

In France, AFDAS is currently the only skills operator (OPCO) that can support training in Venice, under certain conditions.
This funding is primarily aimed at intermittent performers and affiliated or subject artist-authors.
If this applies to you, contact your AFDAS advisor in advance to prepare your application. Campus Mana can provide the necessary documents upon request.

The price includes training as well as materials and personal protective equipment. However, it does not cover transportation, accommodation, or full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

Contact us inscriptions@campusmana.com

93
%
2024 training satisfaction rate
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